MINI John Cooper Works Countryman with 300hp is here

The new (and massive) third-generation Mini Countryman is already here. Now BMW has provided more detail about the infinitely more interesting John Cooper Works variant.

Underneath those blocky new flanks sits a 2.0-litre four-pot engine rated at 300hp and 400Nm of torque, thanks in part to a dual-drive turbocharger working with a dethrottled air intake.

Together with its 'All4' 4WD setup, it'll shift from 0-100km/h in 5.4secs and top out at 250km/h.

Of course, this being a hot MINI means there's yet more infuriating mention of 'the typical MINI go-kart feeling'; said 4WD, together with high-performance brakes and fat tyres (19s or 20s) will at least provide ample grip. The old one was a pretty composed small SUV.

Ah yes, SUV. It’s true, it's big. At least for a MINI. But when compared with other cars of the same power output – think Opel Grandland GSe or Peugeot 3008 GT – size-wise, the Countryman is still smaller, even with this third-gen's extra length and height.

The racing-inspired styling, with all–black bodywork, an accented red roof line, front air intakes, wing mirrors and brake calipers give the JCW Countryman a fairly sedate look, considering.

Should sound fruity, mind. MINI said it’s created a flap to produce the characteristic JCW exhaust note and added a sound extension, which boosts the engine initiation note.

More sensible stuff arrives in the form of 12 ultrasonic sensors, four surround-view cameras and LED headlights adorned with the JCW Signature horizontal bars.

BMW reckons they’ll ‘see’ the JCW Countryman good for L2 ‘partially automated driving’ – an optional extra as part of the Driving Assistant Professional pack – and, where authorised (of course), it'll enable MINI drivers to take their hands off the wheel if they’re prepared to supervise the car.

In the cabin, the MINI JCW Countryman gets minimalist. The stitched upholstery brings the exterior red accents inside, and it’s got the practicality for family needs with rear folded seats growing boot space to 1,450 litres.

Luckily, touches like the sports seats and JCW badges remind you it's not just any family car, or just a MINI.

Whaddya reckon?

STORY Cat Dow